Iraq offered new F-16s with older missiles

Iraq could receive 18 Lockheed Martin F-16s worth up to $4.2 billion and equipped with previous generation missiles and radar, according to the US government.

The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) defined the configuration of an F-16IQ cleared for export to Iraq in a release posted on 24 September.

The agency says that Iraq has a asked for a "possible sale" of F-16s, although a final decision has not been made.

The US government is offering Baghdad a model of the F-16 that would not include latest-generation missiles, such as the Raytheon AIM-120D AMRAAM and AIM-9X Sidewinder air-to-air missiles, or an active electronically scanned array radar.

The USA also would allow Northrop Grumman to supply the mechanically-scanned APG-68(V)9 radar.

The F-16s also would come with an array of electronic warfare, reconnaissance and targeting systems. The jets could be powered by either General Electric F110-129 or Pratt & Whitney F100-229 engines.

Lockheed has been working to sell more F-16s to keep the type in production long enough to win a possible order by India for up to 126 fighters. The F-16 is one six fighters in contention for India's medium multi-role combat aircraft contract.

In August, Oman also requested a possible sale of 18 Lockheed F-16 Block 50/52s in a deal worth up to $3.5 billion.